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HISTORICALLY
SPEAKING FRANCE PATCH PROGRAM 1. France is the largest country in the EU (European Union) and represents 16% of its total area. It is larger than Germany or Italy and twice as large as the United Kingdom. What countries make up the EU and what is it? Locate France on a map and find its Capital. What continent is located on? What countries border France? Identify France’s flag and the type of currency used there. Identify the structures pictured on the patch. 2. Bonjour! (Hello) French is the official language of France, but is also used worldwide by many different people. Learn a few words or phrases in French. You may also wish to check out language tapes or French/English dictionaries from the library. 3. French castles are built in many different shapes and sizes. The Louvre is an example of a castle that has been renovated as a museum. Take time to learn more about France’s castles and cathedrals, such as the Notre Dame de Paris, knights, or gargoyles. (940.1 in the library). You can also make a model of a castle or cathedral, draw a picture of a knight, or mold a gargoyle out of clay. www.louvre.fr 4. Frenchwomen Marie Curie's research and work played an important part in the treatment of cancer. Research other notable people of France such as: Joan of Arc, Louis Braille, or Napoleon. 5. Bon appetit! France is known for its wondrous cuisine; especially its fine wines, cheeses and pastries. Some appetizing foods to try are: chocolate pastries, baguette bread, Brie cheese, crêpes, or potato-cheese casserole. Try some foods from France, go to a French restaurant or make a recipe from a French cookbook or website. 6. The French are very enthusiastic about sports and outdoor activities. Some of the most popular sports in France are: football (soccer), skiing, horseback riding, swimming, tennis, sailing, boules (outdoor bowling), bicycle racing (Le Tour de France) or pelota (handball). Learn more about one of these outdoor activities or choose one to enjoy! 7. From tapestries to a watercolor painting by Monet, the French are appreciative of art in all forms. Explore an artist or creative art. Such as: Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir, fashion shows, weaving, painting, collage, sculpting, jewelry making, stained glass, sewing, or drawing. 8. There are many public holidays and festivals in France. Some examples of holidays and festivals are: May Day, Bastille Day, Saint Nicholas Eve, Noel, April Fish Day, and Mardi Gras. Visit a cultural celebration, re-create a holiday event, or learn the reasons behind one of these celebrated holidays or festivals. You may also create a related drawing or art project, such as: masks or food (like crêpes). 9. In France, the land is very fertile and supports a variety of plants and animals. Many of these fascinating animals and plants have inspired stories and books. Read a book, write your own story or play, draw a picture of an animal or book character, or watch the movie or play version of stories that originated in France. A selection of these are: Madeline, Babar the Elephant, Beauty and the Beast, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Les Miserables and Sleeping Beauty. 10. Children in France enjoy a variety of games and toys. Some common games are: jump rope, jacks, hopscotch, hide and seek, tag, Le Vieux Garcon, and solitaire. Learn about other games or toys in France. Play a game they might have in France or create your own game representing France or French traditions. 11. In a country as large as France, traditional dress and costumes vary from region to region. Women’s skirts are full, but not pleated and the designs range from solid to various patterns. To accent the skirt, a white blouse, apron, shawl, laced up bodice and headdress is often worn. Men’s costumes are similar in most areas of France. They wear pants or knee breeches matched with a white shirt. The hats and jackets to accent the costumes are also different from area to area. Draw a picture of French clothing, dress up in French costumes, or view traditional French clothing through books or the internet. 12. One of the most well known structures in France is the Eiffel Tower. Some other interesting sites in France are the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and the variety of bridges. Learn more about a site you would like to visit by visiting a museum, reading a book, exploring the internet or other avenues. 13. Adults are allowed five weeks of paid vacation and time off for national holidays. This allows them to spend a lot of time with their family. There are countless things to see and enjoy in France, some of these adventures include: Exploring the mountains, relaxing at the beach, canoeing, fishing, boating, skiing, or traveling to another area. Learn more about the different areas in France and tell someone about your vacation or try a fun adventure of your own.
This patch program will help its participants learn more about the history and sites in this country. If you have the privilege of visiting this country, you can complete some of these requirements there. It would be helpful to learn more about the country prior to your visit. Use the library and the internet to research more. |